What is your job about? 

I am currently a graduate software engineer at ING. My tasks include writing code, talking to engineers, and helping my team achieve the goals we’ve set. We also coordinate with teams around the world, like in the Netherlands, to work on projects together.

What is your background and how did it help you in your current career at ING Business Shared Services Inc.? 

I went to high school in an international school in the Middle East. I then attended De La Salle University - Dasmariñas with a degree in Electronics Engineering and a minor in Information Communications Technology in 2020.

During my college years, I was the president of the program council and I had the opportunity to be a representative in an engineers exchange program in Thailand. 

I think I’m part of Gen Z that was always in front of a computer. I designed my first webpage in fifth grade and was always proud of the fact that I was tech-savvy. I have also always felt at home with math and computer subjects so I found it really cool to have a career out of my passion for tech.

What is the coolest thing about working as a graduate at ING Business Shared Services Inc.?

I think the coolest thing about my job is that I am surrounded by smart people. It is during meetings that I can really observe and see them be so creative with their solutions and suggestions. 

What do you love most about your job?

I love that I can really grow in the company. For example, my manager always reminds me that the company is investing in me and that it’s okay to ask for help. There are a lot of mentorship opportunities and they give us funding to take courses on e-learning websites and to take classes for certifications that we want to get.

Do you have projects that you enjoy the most at ING?

I really enjoy projects where we have to start from scratch. We can form our own ideas instead of coding around what is already there. These kinds of projects are team efforts so we delegate tasks to make things easier.

Could someone with a different career or background can do your job?

Honestly, I think yes, as long as you have a passion for learning. I think learning is a skill and you can improve your learning capabilities. Use the opportunities and tools present like the internet and available scholarships.

What three pieces of advice would you give to your student-self?

• Forgive yourself faster - If you make mistakes, take less time to be mad at yourself.
• You don't have to give way too much to other people - If you and someone you know are applying for the same position, don’t stop yourself from applying.
• Be more present in terms of opportunities given to students - There are a lot of opportunities given to students both curricular and extra-curricular-wise. Make the most out of student life.